Comparison of Peloid Therapy and Kinesio Tape Effectiveness in Patients With Plantar Fasciitis

The Plantar Fascia (PF) is a thick, fibrous sheath located in the middle of the sole of the foot, starting from the tuber calcanei in the calcaneus and extending to the level of the middle phalanges. It is a tendinous aponeurosis rather than a true layer of fascia and is an important static support for the longitudinal arch of the foot. Plantar Fasciitis (PFs) is inflammation and thickening of the PF where it attaches to the calcaneus. PFs are the most common cause of heel pain. It has been reported to occur in 10% of people during their lifetime. It is more common between the ages of 40-60. Although its main etiology is not fully understood, the most common theory is; microscopic tears as a result of mechanical overstretching of the fascia followed by chronic inflammation, but histological studies lack evidence to support inflammation. Diagnosis is made by physical examination and radiological examinations (ultrasonography, radiography). On physical examination, there is localized tenderness medial to the calcaneal tuberosity. In the treatment of plantar fasciitis, there are many applied methods such as anti-inflammatory agents, orthostotic supports, night splints, physical therapy, corticosteroid applications, night splint use, plastering, rest, lifestyle modification, laser, taping, exercise and ESWT.

Kinesio tapes, which have been used in the conservative treatment of plantar fasciitis in recent years, are elastic tapes similar to the structural properties and flexibility of human skin, without limiting joint movements. Kinesio taping technique provides physiological effects on skin, fascia, muscle and joint. After applying kinesio tape, it raises the skin in the taped area, increasing the space between it and the muscles and relieving the pressure in that area. It also helps to reduce tension and sensitivity by increasing blood circulation and prevents stimulation of pain receptors.

Peloids (medical mud) are organic or inorganic substances formed as a result of geological and/or biological events. They can be found in nature as fine particles, or they are made into small, fine particles by some preliminary preparation processes. Peloidotherapy is a special balneotherapy method made with natural mud. It is used in the treatment of diseases such as degenerative joint diseases, soft tissue rheumatism, lumbardiscopathy, cervical discopathy, chronic low back and neck pain, joint pain. In both national and international scientific studies on peloid treatment, it has been shown that pain in patients decreases, physical functions improve, quality of life increases, and the amount of painkillers use decreases.

We could not find any study comparing Peloidotherapy and Kinesioband methods routinely used in the treatment of PF in the literature.